Thursday, December 22, 2011

Often, I think it is easier to explain how to NOT be a Good
Boss. I think that we have all had a gross boss or two in our lives (I
know that I have – sit next to me at the next shindig and I’ll tell you all
about her/him/it) and I learned as much about being a Good Boss watching them
treat people badly as I have watching a Good Boss shine. And I am not
saying that I am the best boss, either. I have made mistakes and will
continue to do so. But, IMHO, here are a few tips for becoming a Good
Boss:

·Be honest. Most of the time, your staff
can take the truth – give it to them. Tell them why you made the decision
you did or why you are not going to be able to hire another person to do such
and such. Everyone sleeps better at night knowing that they were dealt
with in an honest manner – including you.

·Seek diversity in opinion. I believe that
the best way to make a decision is to look at all sides. Your staff can
help you to see that your initial decision isn’t always the best
decision. And keep your door open – everyone feels more comfortable
knowing they can have your attention pretty much any time.

·Don’t sweat the small stuff. In the grand
scheme of things, does it really matter if Susie Q calls her mom each
afternoon? If she checks facebook a few times? A little fun in
Susie Q’s day makes Suzie Q a happy employee, plus maybe Susie Q can transition
into your Social Media Maven for Moms!

·Don’t sweat the small stuff unless it is driving
you ab-so-f’n-lutley crazy. Finally, someone has to tell the people who
use the microwave that they have to clean it. You are the boss, after
all.

·Remember that your staff members are not your
friends. I know that this sounds funny coming from me, as those of you
who know me know that I consider some of my co-workers my very best
friends. But a wise CPD board member once told me something that I’ll
never forget. She said, “Paige, your staff members don’t think of you as
their friend. You are their boss.” Even though I absolutely love
all of the staff at CPD and would fight a circle-saw for every single one of
them, I must make decisions that are first and foremost for the best for the
kids served by our agency.